PROPERTYSPARK ARTICLE

Home Insulation 101: What You Need to Know

Author: Shelly Lopez, Real Estate Agent

As a homeowner, you are well aware of the importance of insulation. But what, exactly, is this thing? And how do you go about selecting the most appropriate sort of insulation for your home? It is simple to define home insulation as any material that is utilized to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer months. Air is trapped within your home, forming a barrier between the inside and outside of your home. This is how it works. The following are some important facts about home insulation that you should be aware of prior to moving forward:

Fiberglass, Cellulose, and Spray Foam.

Fiberglass insulation, cellulose insulation, and spray foam insulation are the three most common types of insulation. In the United States, fiberglass insulation is the most often used insulation and is created from recycled glass. Spray foam is created from polyurethane and cellulose, both of which are derived from recycled paper goods. There are advantages and disadvantages to each form of insulation, so it is critical to select the most appropriate insulation for your home’s specific needs.

Cost.

Home insulation costs vary depending on the insulation you select and the size of your home. Generally speaking, fiberglass insulation is the least expensive alternative, whereas spray foam insulation is the most expensive option. But cellulose is somewhere in between, which makes it an excellent balance between cost and effectiveness when it comes to insulation. In the long term, regardless of which insulation you pick, your investment will pay for itself by saving you money on your energy bills. It is true that adding insulation to your home is one of the best ways to be energy-efficient when it comes to cost.

But, also keep in mind that the initial cost is not the only cost to consider. The R-value will also affect the long-term cost because it determines how much energy you’ll save over time.

R-Value.

To resist heat, an insulation must have a good R-value. A high R-value can keep your home warm in all climates. Fiberglass insulation has an R-value of 2.5-4.0, cellulose insulation has an R-value of 3.6-3.8, and spray foam insulation has an R-value of 6.0-8.0. Personally, I would recommend either cellulose or spray foam insulation because they have a higher R-value than fiberglass insulation.

The best technique for your home insulation still depends on your demands and budget. Fiberglass insulation is the most popular form, available in rolls or batts. This sort of insulation is easy to install and is widely available. Spray foam insulation is also popular since it is applied as a liquid and expands to cover any gaps or holes. Pricey, but better-sealing than fiberglass. Cellulose insulation, on the other hand, is less expensive than other insulation options and is widely available because it is created from recycled paper products. For extremely cold climates, rigid foam insulation composed of polystyrene or other materials may be installed. However, it provides the best protection against cold weather and can help you save money on your energy expenses.

Home insulation is, without a doubt, a key component of making your home pleasant throughout the year. Understanding the many types of insulation available, as well as the prices associated with each, will help you make an informed decision about which insulation is best for your home. You can also guarantee that your property is adequately secured against the weather by taking the time to properly install the insulation.